Part 2 in a 3 part series with Proper Paw's Judy Bernard on socializing puppies during COVID-19
Katherine: What are you recommending to new puppy owners to get their pups ready to see the vet without their owners? Judy: I recommend spending time each day getting your pet used to the things they will see and experience while at the vet, AND associating those things with high value treats. This will help lessen the stress and anxiety they will experience when they do visit the vet. Katherine: What are some of the activities you find work well? Judy: Here are some things you can do to help your pet with future vet visits:
Katherine: Any watch outs new owners should be aware of? Judy: Remember these exercises should be a fun game for your dog, if at any point the dog begins to show signs of stress or anxiety (tail tucked, head lowered, growling, backing away), STOP, jolly things up, play tug or fetch (whatever your dog likes), and FEED those high value treats! If the fear persists, call a dog training professional familiar with cooperative care training. Vet visits should be fun, if we play pretend vet at home we get our puppy/dog familiar with all the things they will see while they are at the vet. By associating all of those pretend vet actions with high value food reinforcers we are setting the puppy/dog up to have as stress free experience as possible. |